The Makauwahi Cave Reserve is a must-see for nature lovers and paleontology enthusiasts. This sinkhole is home to a sand-floored cave that holds a rich fossil record and evidence of the widespread extinction of native plants and animals. The reserve can be reached by hiking along the Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail or by driving along a dirt road beyond the Grand Hyatt. Visitors can learn more about the site's history from the volunteers who are on hand daily in the cave and can take a walk along the rim of the sinkhole, which is being replanted with native species.

Zisa Palace is a 12th century castle built for King William I of Sicily. Its name derives from the Arabic word "al-Aziz", which means splendid. The original Norman building underwent some changes during the years, especially with the decorations added during the Baroque period. The Islamic inspiration for the architecture is clearly visible in the decorations of the vestibule, where Arabic vaults and columns are interposed by Baroque frescoes and marble decorations. Today, the castle houses a museum of Islamic art.

The Central Textile Museum was established in 1960 and is housed in the amazing 19th-century White Factory. It contains a unique collection of textile tools and machinery, fabrics and clothing and the largest collection of tapestries in Europe.